Clean sheet is key says Magpies defender Ross

Chorley defender Mark Ross is eager to keep a clean slate to ensure the Magpies progress into the Conference North play-off final.

Garry Flitcroft’s side drew 0-0 with Boston United at Victory Park in their play-off semi-final first-leg on Tuesday night.

And after back-to-back clean sheets, Chorley’s players’ player of the year Ross hopes he and his fellow defenders can do their bit to fire the Magpies to just a game away from Conference football.

He said: “Boston are the home team so they will be doing more attacking.

“But I am confident we can keep a clean sheet.

“A few weeks ago we got the defence sorted and settled after injuries and suspensions.

“We’ve always had a good defence and my goal is to keep a clean sheet.”

He believes Chorley will be able to end the Pilgrims’ promotion quest if United set up the way they did at Victory Park.

Ross said: “They surprised me a little bit on Tuesday night. I remembered them being a little bit better.

“But they had travelled a fair way so we can’t take too much from their performance.

“If they do play the same on Saturday, I think we can beat them.

“It is still 0-0 but our mind-set hasn’t changed.

“Had we won the first leg we’d still want to win the second leg because we want to win every match we play. I know all the lads are up for it. Everyone is confident and we are going to give it our all.”

Ross is keen to add another trophy to his player-of-the-year gong and he was pleased to be recognised by his team mates.

He said: “I’ve been here for quite a few seasons now and I’ve never had a sniff of an award.

“I think I’ve played well this season but it is quite surprising.

“This was the award I wanted.

“I’m pleased the lads have recognised my performances. I’m massive on team bonding.

“And for me, it is great to have been voted for by the lads.

“I have just always wanted to progress.

“If we get promoted we’d be playing better teams and players and it will raise the bar higher.

“It will be a step up and I’d love to test myself at that level.

“Everyone wants to get back-to-back promotions – it would be fantastic.”